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The varied terrain of Washington state allows for new and seasoned river rafters to enjoy multiple day trips on rivers that range from docile to high-speed with Class IV rapids. The best time to take your rafting trip is in the late spring or early summer when snow runoff from the mountain ranges is at its highest.

Methow River 2-Day

This two-day overnighter arranged by Orion begins in the town of Twisp, about 30 miles east of Lake Chelan, and follows the Methow River south until it meets the Columbia River. Day one is gentle, with Class II water and the opportunity to see wildlife such as osprey, redtail hawks, eagles and beaver. Camp overnight before hitting the white water the next morning. You will encounter Class III to VI rapids as you enter Black Canyon Rapids and the "black hole," a major wave on the river. The trip is suitable for rafters 12 years old and up, new and experienced. Orion provides all meals and rafting equipment, with tents available on request.

Wenatchee/Methow Overnighter

Blue Sky Outfitters offers a two day rafting trip of the Wenatchee and Methow rivers on weekends in May and June. The first morning is spent cruising the Wenatchee river out of Cashmere, Washington, taking in the scenery and wildlife. After pulling ashore in the early afternoon, you are free to hike the area or visit Lighting Park RV park to take in a game of volleyball or archery. Day two is spent on the Methow River rapids with a barbecue dinner at the end of the day. The trip is considered a Class III and is suitable for ages eight and up. Four meals and a tent (if needed) is provided.

Tieton Overnight

Alpine Adventures arranges two day trips on the Tieton River in the Yakima Valley area in September when water is released from the Rimrock Dam. The river has narrow and steep Class III+ rapids, leading you 14 miles downriver until the Tieton meets up with the Naches River. Travel through rapids by the names of High Noon and Waffle Wall and get soaked running over a river-wide dam. The trip begins with camping overnight at the tour company's private outpost before rafting the next morning.

Wenatchee and Skykomish Overnighter

Alpine Adventures also arranges an overnight rafting trip that makes the most out of the Wenatchee and Skykomish rivers. Begin in Eastern Washington on the Wenatchee River, just outside of the town of Leavenworth. Experience up to Class III rapids this first day, then take a leisurely evening enjoying the Bavarian sights of Leavenworth before driving over Stevens Pass to the west side of the Cascades. Day two is spent tackling the Class IV rapids of Boulder Drop on the Skykomish River. The trip includes gear, guide and lunches and is run April through October.

Custom Overnighter on the Klickitat

All Adventures Rafting plans single day trips down the Klickitat River May through September, but for those looking for a two-day option, the company arranges custom overnight tours on the river. The river is remote, with high lava cliffs and little human traffic. The river gets the most snow melt in late May and early June, creating a solid Class IV rafting adventure. During other times of the year, the rapids are Class III and some areas are more scenic than high-speed. An overnight trip can include deli-style lunch or you can bring your own meals. All Adventures Rafting offers discounts for church groups, scouts and athletic teams.

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About the Author

Nadia Nygaard has been writing and editing since 2005. She is published in "Farm and Ranch Living" and has edited projects as diverse as grant proposals, medical dissertations and tenant law handbooks. She is a graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts in English and women's studies.